Allergivaksinering

Allergivaksinering, also known as allergen immunotherapy, is a medical treatment aimed at reducing a person's allergic reactions over time. It involves gradually exposing the patient's immune system to increasing doses of the allergen that causes their symptoms. The goal is to desensitize the immune system, making it less reactive to the allergen when encountered in everyday life. This treatment is typically prescribed for individuals with moderate to severe allergies that significantly impact their quality of life, and for whom conventional medications provide insufficient relief or are associated with undesirable side effects.

The process of allergivaksinering can be administered in two main ways: subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) and sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT). SCIT involves regular injections of allergen extracts, usually given in a doctor's office. SLIT involves placing a liquid or tablet form of the allergen under the tongue, which can often be taken at home after initial doses are administered under medical supervision. Both methods require a commitment to a treatment schedule that can last for several years.

Allergivaksinering is most commonly used for allergies to pollen (seasonal allergies), dust mites, insect venom, and some animal danders. It is not typically used for food allergies or latex allergies, although research is ongoing in these areas. While allergivaksinering can be highly effective in reducing symptoms, preventing new allergies from developing, and decreasing the need for allergy medication, it is not a cure for allergies. Patients may still experience mild reactions, and the effects of the treatment can vary. It is important for individuals to discuss the potential benefits, risks, and suitability of allergivaksinering with their allergist or doctor.